Coast deaths highest in four years

The number of people who died along Britain's coast in 2013 was the highest in four years, the RNLI said, as it launches a campaign calling on people to Respect the Water.

Figures show that 167 people died in water-related accidents last year, and a further 368 were rescued by lifeguard crews after getting into difficulties.

More people were killed at the coast last year than the numbers who died in cycling accidents.

The numbers, which come as temperatures continue to soar and people take to the coasts for the school holidays, should cause people to increase their safety in and around the water, said RNLI coastal safety manager Ross Macleod.

"We really feel that that number is too high and we need to do something about it," he said, ahead of the campaign launch in Brighton today by England rugby player James Haskell.

Cold water shock, rip currents and fatigue are common factors in contributing to accidents at the coast, the RNLI said, while a lcohol played a part in 28 deaths last year.

Almost one fifth of those who died were were simply swimming or walking along the coasts, added Mr Macleod.

"The biggest causes of coastal fatalities are not necessarily what you'd think," he said.

"Around 20% of the fatalities last year were caused by very everyday use of the coast, general activities like walking and going for swims and not necessarily the high risk adrenalin sports that you might think.

"There's factors that are associated with a lot of the fatalities including things like cold water shock, the strength of rip currents, as well as people drinking and going into the water."

Two-thirds of the 640 deaths over the past four years were men, figures showed.

As part of the campaign a woman who lost her uncle at sea is lending her support to raise awareness of the "hidden dangers" of water.

Elizabeth Toogood said: "My uncle Lee drowned in the sea off Weston-super-Mare beach when he was just 29 years old.

"He had grown up in Weston, swam there a lot and was very familiar with the area. Lee was a strong swimmer and confident in the water, these competencies were not enough to save his life.

"The accident happened a few years ago, however the impact of this tragedy still lives on with us as a family."

Rugby star Haskell said: " This campaign isn't about telling people not to go into the water - in fact, quite the opposite.

"This is about being smart and safe when you are there. The water is the opponent that never tires, so make sure you're never put to the test."